Race to the top: driving ambition in the Post-2020 international climate agreement
In December 2015, countries are scheduled to conclude negotiations on a new international climate agreement under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to address how to shift the world’s economy onto a low-carbon and climate-resilient pathway in a manner that is ambitious, equitable, and transparent. An approach to this agreement is needed that can provide predictability and clarity for the future pathway for emissions reductions and support greater and more rapid action in emissions reductions. This paper reviews past practice in the UNFCCC and examines some of the most promising options to improve the effectiveness of the UNFCCC and drive greater ambition into the future with the new international climate agreement. By creating a more predictable and dynamic architecture, nations are more likely to be in a better position to drive ambition forward on a regular basis. Predictable, as there will be a clear process forward for years to come. Dynamic, as governments will be able to increase commitments at any time. Governments, business, investors, and the public will have a clearer understanding of the role of the UNFCCC in supporting the pathway to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy.